Published: October 15, 2006 12:43 pm      

Panorama of color

Oklahoma is the place to see fall foliage

Nowhere will you experience the full spectrum of autumn’s vibrant panorama or topographical diversity than in the Sooner State. From the lush forests of the eastern counties to the mesas of the Panhandle, from the semi-arid southwest to the lakes of the northeast, Oklahoma in the fall is a vast canvas of color and texture.

Each year between mid-October and early November, thousands of visitors make the trek into and across our scenic state to witness firsthand the breathtaking colors and glorious displays provided to us by Mother Nature.

Whether you’re admiring the spectacular foliage from the comfort of your car, by canoe, mountain bike, horseback or on foot, the landscape awaits. Haunting mesas, ancient granite bluffs, rolling prairies, vast hardwood forests and mountainous timberland regale visitors with nature’s majestic beauty.

From blackgums in deep shades of purple and sugar maples in a rainbow of red and orange hues, to oak trees swathed in resplendent crowns of yellow and gold, Oklahoma’s varied landscape provides a varied backdrop for fall foliage.

Southeastern Oklahoma

Lake Murray State Park: Off SH-77 south of Ardmore, Oklahoma’s largest state park exhibits incredible fall foliage along Hickory Creek and makes for a great weekend getaway drive. Cabins and camping facilities offer a place to stay and relax amongst the scenery. While there, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, hiking, bird watching and even scuba diving offer fun for the entire family.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area: Located in Sulphur, this is one of southern Oklahoma’s most beautiful drives. The area surrounding the Lake of the Arbuckles abounds with towering pines. There’s also a nature center and nature trails. For more adventure, visit the animals at nearby Arbuckle Wilderness exotic animal park in Davis, or the water wonderland of Turner Falls.

Robbers Cave State Park: Off SH-2 north of Wilburton, the dazzling array of reds, oranges and yellows dominate the lush San Bois Mountains in the fall, making for incredible views. Camping facilities and the Belle Starr Lodge give visitors an opportunity to stay longer to marvel at the hardwood trees and pines that tower above the rocky landscape.

Talimena Scenic Byway: Off SH-1, east of Talihina, this is perhaps Oklahoma’s most renowned fall foliage drive. Recently designated an official National Scenic Byway by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, this pathway was built expressly for its view of the spectacular spring and fall foliage. The 54-mile highway winds through the Ouachita Mountains, between Talihina and Mena, AR, with several scenic turnouts along the path. Mile after mile of hardwoods and statuesque evergreen pines present an array of color and splendor. Nearby, visit the mysterious Viking Runestone at Heavener Runestone State Park or camp at either Talimena or Lake Wister State Park.

US Highway 259: South of Big Cedar, this path takes you through the mountains and beside the clear rivers where some of the most colorful, vibrant shades red, yellow and orange can be found. Beavers Bend Resort Park on Broken Bow Lake is a prime destination to witness nature’s changing hues, as well as an ideal camping location. Beavers Bend offers accommodations with mountain cabins and the Lakeview Lodge. While there, visit the Forest Heritage Center, or fish for trout in the Mountain Fork River, or take a float trip or paddleboat along the river.

Southwestern Oklahoma

Red Rock Canyon State Park: Off SH-8 south of Hinton, the glorious display of fall color shows up early in the sheltered bottomland of the canyon. Sugar maples offer vibrant color against the red stone canyon walls, making for a dramatic landmark amongst the plains of western Oklahoma. Explore nature with hiking and camping at this park.

Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge: Northwest of Lawton, you’ll want to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the refuge with its granite formations and amazing color of post and blackjack oaks. Other activities to indulge in are rock climbing, camping and nature trails. Stop by Meers for a famous, oversized “Meers burger” at the Meers Store or check out the eclectic cobblestone resort town of nearby Medicine Park.

Northwestern Oklahoma

Boiling Springs State Park: Located off SH-50B east of Woodward, Boiling Springs is a virtual oasis on the plains, with clear, running water and tall cottonwood trees that mingle with the sand-hill and sagebrush landscape of the area. The park offers cabins with fireplaces, hiking, camping, golfing and nature trails. Check out nearby Little Sahara State Park in Wayoka for dune buggy adventure on the sand dunes.

Great Salt Plains State Park: Off SH-38 north of Jet, the lush timbered areas of this region display an array of colors as summer turns to fall. Here you will find hardwoods, locust, cottonwood, post oak, hackberry and willow trees. Plenty of waterfowl abound in the area such as ducks, geese and pelicans. You may also catch sight of wild turkey and deer. While there, don’t miss the adjoining Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge.

Roman Nose Resort Park: Off SH-8A north of Watonga, this park offers a stunning autumn scene with rushing springs that feed the hardwoods in the canyon floor. With a rich Indian history and natural beauty, enjoy a weekend retreat at any of the park cabins or resort accommodations. For fun, play a round of golf at the 18-hole golf course or go horseback riding on one of the trails. You can visit the nearby Watonga Cheese Factory too.

Northeastern Oklahoma

Osage Hills State Park: Off SH-60 west of Bartlesville, this park is mostly made up of a dense, hardwood forest of post and blackjack oak timber that meets up with Sand Creek. There are full park facilities here offering fishing, camping and cabin rentals. Visit nearby Woolaroc Ranch, Museum & Wildlife Preserve for an adventure through Wild West history and a glimpse of buffalo, elk, deer and longhorn cattle as they graze freely in the natural surroundings.

Oologah Reservoir: Off SH-88 north of Claremore, you might get lost in the fall beauty of the wooded hills overlooking Lake Oologah. Follow the Skull Hollow Natural Trail on its winding path through the majestic oak-hickory forest. Indulge in recreational fun like swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing and hunting. Don’t miss the Dog Iron Ranch, Will Rogers Birthplace in Oologah and the Will Rogers Memorial in Claremore.

Miami to Tahlequah: Take an excursion along the eastern part of the state beginning east of Miami near Twin Bridges State Park, proceeding south along Grand Lake, paralleling the Illinois River. Pass by Lake Tenkiller and Green Leaf State Park for more picturesque scenery. Stay overnight at Western Hills Guest Ranch at Sequoyah State Park or take advantage of the multiple recreational opportunities available at Tenkiller, Greenleaf and Sequoyah State Parks.

State Highway 51 and US 59: Just east of Tahlequah, this path will take you through rich forest and rolling mountains for a breathtaking display of fall colors. While in the area, learn more about the historical and cultural legacy of the Cherokee at the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah or Sequoyah’s Cabin in Sallisaw.

For more information on scenic drives across the state, visit www.TravelOK.com or call toll-free, 800-652-6552.